Different ways to help out bees

Bees are responsible for about one-third of the world’s food supply. Unfortunately, there has been a 40 percent decline in most bee populations around the world mostly due to climate change.

Other threats include habitat loss, pesticides and herbicides, monoculture (or the act of growing a single crop at a time), and even disease.

While the problem with the bee population has many concerned, there are some approaches that almost everyone can do to make a difference on the situation. Here are some ideas to try out:

Plant native flowers. Native plants are, by nature, easier to grow because they’re accustomed to the climate in the area. This makes them the primary target for bees endemic in the location. Bees need good nutrition to thrive and having a variety of plants to choose from widens the scope of what they can both consume and spread.

Leave a container of water for bees to drink from. Bees also get thirsty. Water is a key ingredient for them to survive and continue pollinating plants. Leave out a container of water for bees to drink from; don’t add sugar and just keep the water fresh at all costs. Add twigs, rocks, or other sorts of debris on the surface where bees could land to keep them from falling in and drowning. To prevent mosquitoes, change the water at least once a week.

Buy local organic produce. Several studies discovered that common pesticides can are severely harmful toward bee colonies. Supporting local organic farmers is a first step in lessening the use of commercial chemical pesticides. Taking it a step further would mean avoiding the use of chemicals in home gardens.

Make a bee hotel. Habitat loss is a major threat to the bee population. If there’s a space available, design a bee hotel or a place where they can repopulate for a period of time. It can be as simple as an old coffee can, tubes, or even a more elaborate design using bricks, logs, and other materials.

Buy honey from local beekeepers. Honey production is a benefit that beekeepers get from healthy bees. Consider supporting smaller local beekeepers who practice ethical beekeeping to promote a more gentle and humane way in treating bees.

Bees play a significant role in the global food production. It only takes a few small steps to help protect the bees and make a difference for the future generations.

Agriculture Monthly magazine is the Philippines' best-selling magazine on all things agriculture. Helmed by veteran agriculture journalist Zac B. Sarian, the magazine is packed with information and inspiration on how to make the most of your farm or garden.